All Al Reed wants is for one of Harlem’s most recognized jazz clubs to continue its legacy – even if it’s owned by a pal of actor Robert De Niro.

Reed, who has owned Lenox Lounge since 1988, will not be renewing his lease when it ends in June because he can’t afford the rent. The landlord is hiking the rent for the historic jazz institution from $10,000 per month to $20,000, he said.

“There’s no way I can do that…I’m not mad. That’s their business decision. They wanted to make some money,” he said, adding at least nine different groups have come to “look at” the 74-person capacity space on Lenox Ave. near W. 125th St.

While Reed knows he can’t afford to stay, he’s hopeful he will still have a hand in the future of Lenox Lounge if the new owner decides to continue the legacy of the jazz spot that first opened in 1939.

“I’m not selling the place; the landlord is increasing the rent, that I can’t pay,” he told the Daily News of the club that has been a stage for jazz greats ranging from Billie Holiday to Miles Davis.

“I’m sad about it, but I’m realistic. I can’t do too much about it,” he said. “I’m more concerned about Lenox Lounge existing even if it exists without me.”

Reed, a life-long Harlem resident who started out selling 15 cent copies of the Amsterdam News when he was about 8, said he’s disappointed to see so many area businesses closing up.

It’s been reported that interested buyers include restaurateur MarcusSamuelsson and a partner of Robert De Niro. But, whoever decides to take over the pricey lease will have to work with Reed, who plans to still have a hand in Lenox’s legacy. “I am Lenox Lounge, and I will be Lenox Lounge for quite some time. And if they want Lenox Lounge, they want me.”